Tara Bradford

When we traveled together so many years ago, Eliesha was one of the most compassionate, kind, accepting and overwhelmingly loving friends a girl could ask for. Over the years, memories of our time together have peaked through too many times to count - her big all encompassing hugs, her joyful and contagious laugh and her big smile beaming life, the way she loved and respected all things big and small and the knack she had for making everyone feel special.

It is now about 25 years later since we’ve shared such beautiful experiences and laughter together, and I can still remember as clear as yesterday times that we shared - I think because of how deeply she was able to connect with me, like she did with everyone. She undoubtedly has left a stamp of love and life on the heart of everyone blessed enough to have spent time with her.

I haven’t made efforts to stay in touch with people throughout my life, always moving on to the next season and trying to leave the previous seasons behind. I am hit with intense sadness now. What an immense loss that I’ll never find words for. How I wish I had shared with Eliesha how her friendship years ago has impacted my life, how watching her from a distance fight this cancer battle so bravely and with such grace has changed a piece of me.

Eliesha, one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever known - I will carry your beaming smile, your loving voice and the friendship you gave me in my heart. Till we meet again …

Jul 2, 2022

Carol Fonden

Eliesha’s love of dancing was evident shown early on as she taught dance moves to her younger sisters and friends! Her love of life and exuberance brought much joy to all who knew her.
The wonderful memories of times together as our children grew up will forever be in our hearts.

2

Jul 1, 2022

Eric M.

I have many fond memories of Eliesha - although I do wish we had been able to spend more time together in our adult years. Growing up as cousins, Eliesha was definitely the cool one - always mature, taking care of the younger ones, and radiating warmth and energy. She always felt wise beyond her years!

After my family moved to Texas, we saw Eliesha every now and then on family visits and trips. I remember her touring in a theatre group, though, and seeing one of her shows in what I believe was Amarillo - she was great!

After I moved to NYC in 2011, Daniel and Eliesha visited me for a few days in the City, which was really fun - we had a great time visiting various sites and I really enjoyed hosting them.

Our families were able to briefly see each other for family gatherings, but I wish we had had more time together. Our daughters have loved playing with Aria, and I hope to continue that cousin connection throughout their lives.

We'll be keeping Eliesha, Daniel, Aria and family in our prayers.

Jul 1, 2022

pat muller

Although I never had the pleasure to meet you in person, I know of the love and life you brought to Daniel and that my dear was beautiful. I look forward to watching your daughter grow in your heavenly light.

Jun 28, 2022

Daniel Buitron

Hi Pat, thank you for your comment. You actually did meet her once, briefly at one of the PDX Networking events from Harlo. :)

Jun 28, 2022

Helena Mårtensson

Dear Eliesha,
Our roads crossed twice in life and I am forever grateful for that 💕.

The first crossing was in Cast A in Up with People 1997/98. The second crossing was 22 years later during your amazing online yoga sessions from Colombia during the pandemic. I will forever carry your smile and wisdom in my heart, beautiful Sister of the Moon.
Finally I will share some of the lyrics from an Up with People song called Roads:

“ None of us is born the same
We don’t know why; it’s the way we came.
Every heart beats a little differently
Each soul is free to find its way
Like a river that winds its way to the sea.

For life is a journey
And there are many roads beneath the sky
And there are many good people
Who don’t see eye to eye.

There are many roads to go
And they go by many names.
They don’t all go the same way
But they get there all the same
And I have a feelin’ that we’ll meet some day
Where the roads come together up the way.”
Rest In Peace and Sunshine beautiful you. 💓

Jun 28, 2022

Martina Schäfer

Dear Eliesha, your fight against cancer was more than heroic. You remained yourself throughout, always whole, always radiant, calm and beautiful. In that sense, you clearly won this battle.

From the bottom of my heart thank you for being such a wonderful and inspiring yoga teacher and personality. Thank you especially for your help when the pandemic locked us up. In your class we were all still close and connected, across countries and continents. We especially laughed a lot in the "Chicken Yoga" lesson. I couldn't help but photograph it. I miss you. You will forever be part of my yoga practice. Your light will shine on.

Jun 27, 2022

Stanley Stewart

Eliesha was full of joy, mischief, and life every time I had a chance to hang out with her. One of those moments was at my wedding to Jaydn. Here are some photos to remember her presence there.
I'm so happy to be part of her daughter's life. We often notice Eliesha-isms in her daughter's facial expressions and comments.

2

Jun 27, 2022

Lorna Day

My son was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma when I worked as an OT with Eliesha. He passed in 2016, and a year or two later I flew to Colombia to attend Eliesha's yoga retreat. I knew she would be loving and healing and an excellent teacher. It was a very special time for me. The yoga and rich conversation were such a blessing. We have been in contact since her diagnosis because her cancer is very similar to what my son had, but less researched and more destructive. Eliesha impacted me and I am so grateful to have had the special time I did with her.

Jun 26, 2022

Daniel Buitron

Eliesha being interviewed while at Up With People, Cast A 1997

Jun 26, 2022

Linnet Mendez

I’m going to miss all the physical fun we’ve had over the years, pile of kittens, dancing, singing and general silliness. What a bright, loving and shining spirit you are. I will carry you with me forever, you changed my life twice! Once in college and over the last two years. I am so glad that we found each other again.

Jun 26, 2022